There are three essential components in managing type 1 diabetes. They are:

• Insulin (a substance that regulates glucose)
• Regular exercise
• A nutritious diet

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Type 1 diabetes, including a variation known as latent autoimmune diabetes of adulthood (LADA), is characterized by the body’s inability to produce insulin. Without this hormone, glucose builds up in the bloodstream instead of entering the cells. The body is unable to use this glucose for energy. Poorly controlled glucose can lead to numerous medical complications, including:

• Diabetic ketoacidosis and diabetic coma
• Heart disease and stroke
• Kidney disease (diabetic nephropathy)
• Eye diseases including diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and cataracts
• Nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy)
• Skin disorders, foot problems and amputation
• Infections such as gingivitis and yeast infections
• Sexual dysfunction

People with type 1 diabetes require regular insulin administration, which allows glucose to enter the cells from the bloodstream. Because exercise can affect glucose, patients who take insulin need to take additional precautions when exercising, particularly those who are prone to hypoglycemia or have hypoglycemia unawareness.

In addition to improving overall fitness, regular exercise as prescribed by a physician can help people with type 1 diabetes:

• Control glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol
• Enhance cardiovascular function
• Manage weight
• Prevent insulin resistance and double diabetes
• Reduce the amount of insulin needed (as advised by a physician)
• Prevent or delay complications of diabetes
• Avoid unstable diabetes